Kaito and Zenith found themselves in the rhythm of the road. The wagon rattled along the dusty track as they edged closer to Plago City. The journey had been so smooth that Zenith’s eyes shone brightly as she took in the changing scenery around them. So far, they had made good time. With half of their journey behind them, they were ahead of schedule and bound to reach Plago City in two days.
“Kaito, I can’t wait to explore the markets in Plago City,” she said, sitting beside him. “They have this little bakery, ‘Misty Mornings’, their cinnamon swirls are to die for.”
“Cinnamon swirls, you say? That does sound tempting. Any other culinary highlights I should be aware of?”
“Oh, definitely!” her words tumbled out in her eagerness. “There’s ‘Sapphire Sweets’ – they make the most amazing cupcakes. You’ve never made cupcakes for me, Kaito. I wonder how they’d compare to yours?”
Oh, discussing cupcakes? How riveting. Alert me when you start talking about something less yawn-inducing.
Thrilling indeed, Karen. I’ll definitely alert you…but don’t wake up until I let you know, okay.
A hint of a challenge glinted in Kaito’s eyes. “Is that so? Well, perhaps I should take this as an opportunity to expand my baking repertoire. Who knows, maybe I can surpass even ‘Sapphire Sweets’.”
Zenith laughed, a sound that was both light-hearted and genuine. “I’d love to see you try. But be warned, their velvet lunar cupcake is a tough act to follow.”
“Challenge accepted. After all, exploring new culinary frontiers is part of the adventure, isn’t it?”
“Kaito,” she began, her tone softening, “you always seem to find joy in the simplest things, like baking or a beautiful sunset—or pouring rain. I…I admire that about you.”
Kaito turned his gaze from the road to meet hers. “Life is a collection of simple moments. Finding joy in them, that’s the key to happiness, don’t you think?”
Zenith nodded. “I think you’re right. And I’m glad to be sharing these moments with you.”
As the miles melted away under the clop of horse hooves and their effortless conversation, and they reached the border between Daiyudura and Ganada, an unanticipated quirk came into view.
A group of rough-looking men blocked their way.
When they reached the threshold one of the men stepped forward, a crooked grin on his face. “Good day, travelers. There’s a toll for crossing this bridge now. A new decree, you see. Forty silver pieces.”
Zenith’s brow furrowed. “A toll? That’s nonsense. I’ve traveled this bridge numerous times, and there’s never been a toll.”
The man’s grin widened. “Well, things change, miss. Pay up, and you can pass.” He then eyed Zenith from head to toe. “If you don’t have the forty silver, we can come up with some other arrangement—”
Kaito, interjected with a polite smile. “I apologize for any inconvenience we’ve caused. We weren’t aware of the change. I hope you have a wonderful rest of your day.”
“Hey Blarloc, what’s the hold up? Is he gonna pay up, or are we gonna have a problem?” yelled one of the other men blocking the bridge.
“I don’t know…I think he’s leaving.” Blarloc stood dumbfounded as Kaito gently turned the wagon around, heading back the way they came.
Zenith looked at him, bewildered and frustrated. “Kaito, what are you doing? That’s the only bridge to Plago City! We can’t just turn around. Unless you plan on flying us there?”
Kaito’s smile never wavered. “We’re still heading in the right direction, Zen.”
“But how? There’s no other way unless…”
“It’s called Dimensional Paradox Shift,” he said.
Zenith stared at him. “A Dimensional... what now?”
Kaito’s eyes held a mischievous glint. “It’s a simple technique, really. It changed everyone’s position relative to the bridge. Quite handy in situations like this. The scammers are actually facing the wrong direction now,” he chuckled.
Zenith shook her head in disbelief. “Simple? That’s a godlike spell. Not even Daiyudura’s master of illusion is capable of such tricks, Kaito…”
That spell was epic…but I’m a little offended that you kept it so inconspicuous.
By the way…I’m watching you.
“...teach it to me!”
I mean…it wouldn’t do any harm to teach her this spell.
▬▬ι════════ﺤ
“Kaito, wait. How does this align with my light IDM specialization? This feels more… Time and Space-oriented.”
“Ah, you raise a good point. While the core of this spell is indeed rooted in Time and Space IDM, there’s an aspect of Light IDM that can be incorporated to enhance it.”
Zenith’s expression softened. “Really? How so?”
“Light IDM as you know, is about clarity and illumination, correct?” Kaito began.
“Yes.”
“When performing the Dimensional Paradox Shift, envision your Light IDM as a beacon, guiding you through the folded dimensions.”
Zenith nodded slowly. “So, I’d use my Light IDM to ensure I don’t get lost in the dimensional shift?”
“Exactly,” Kaito confirmed. “Your Light IDM will serve as an anchor point. It’s about balancing the raw manipulation of space with the guiding properties of light.”
“Sooo, I focus on the precision of light, like I do in my dawn rituals, but apply it to the spatial coordinates of the shift?”
“Yes! That’s exactly it.”
Zenith frowned. “Yeah…that makes no sense.”
“The principle is actually straightforward. You’re essentially recalibrating the IDM’s spatial coordinates relative to the planar shifts.”
After retrieving a quill and a small notepad, made of bound parchment, Zenith scribbled some notes. “Spatial coordinates, got it.”
“First, you’ll need to calculate the NCV—the Numerical Complexity Value—which varies based on the spell’s target size and your current altitude above sea level,” Kaito continued.
Zenith paused, her quill hovering. “Holy Demon King, altitude matters?”
“Of course,” Kaito replied. “Now, remember the Fibonacci-like sequence for skill point allocation? You’ll apply a similar pattern here to determine the mana flow rate.”
Zenith’s brow furrowed. “So, it’s like... mana algebra?”
“Precisely,” Kaito said with a nod. “Next, factor in the phase of the nearest moon for IDM conversion efficiency. This will affect your spell’s potency. It’s very simple in this world’s magic system.”
“Moon phases, right...” Zenith blinked. “This is…like, not simple at all.”
“Don’t worry, I’m sure you’ll get the hang of it. Look, this is the fun part,” Kaito said enthusiastically. “Align your emotional state, let’s choose ‘determination’, with the IDM of Time and—”
“Look! The city gates!” she exclaimed, pointing eagerly. As they rode up to the entrance, Zenith’s gaze darted around, taking in the sights with a joyful expression.
Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Kaito watching her, his eyes showing a warm, happy glow.
They pulled up to the gate and two guards promptly approached their wagon.
Just be cool, she told herself. What if the guards gave them trouble about entering? She hoped the official letter signed and stamped by Neo Proudmantle would be enough.
Glancing over at Kaito riding beside her, she took a deep breath, reassured by his calm confidence. No matter what happened, she felt better having him there with her. She gave him a little nod and an apprehensive smile before turning to face the guards as they rode up to the gates.
“State your names and business,” one of the guards asked, peering at them curiously. Zenith could see her face clearly on the guard’s polished armor.
“I’m Zenith, the mayor of Calmo Village.”
“And I’m Kaito Smith,” he added.
“Welcome Mayor Zenith and...” The guard tilted his head at Kaito. “Master...Smith, was it? That’s an interesting and unique last name”
Kaito nodded serenely. The guard rubbed his chin. But Kaito, huh? Not a name we hear often around here. Sounds foreign, maybe from the Nozia Empire?”
“It’s a strange name around these parts. You’re not from the Nozia Empire, are you?”
“My parents were weeb—fond of different cultures,” Kaito replied evenly.
“By the way, there’s a group of bandits at the bridge between Daiyudura and Ganada. They’re demanding coin for passage.”
The guard’s expression turned serious. “Thank you for informing us. We’ll send a platoon to deal with them immediately.”
“Thank you,” Kaito added with a nod. “We thought it best to report such activities.”
Zenith leaned out eagerly. “Pardon me, but could we schedule an appointment with the mayor of Plago City? We have matters to discuss regarding our village.”
The guard checked a ledger, shaking his head. “My apologies, Mayor Zenith, but Mayor Shurkitsk’s schedule is full. I could book you for tomorrow at noon?”
“Excellent, we’ll plan for it then.” Zenith clasped her hands. “Well Kaito, are you ready to check out that bakery?”
Kaito inclined his head gallantly. “After you, Madame Mayor.”
“Please turn left past the gate, and you’ll have to leave the wagons and the horses in the stables.”
“Thank you for the directions,” Zenith replied with a polite nod as they prepared to proceed.
The guard glanced at the second wagon, then asked, “Mayor Zenith, is the insectoid creature with you?”
“Yes Sir. He will be transporting whatever goods we purchase from your city.”
“Very well. Please carry on.”
When Kaito helped her down from the wagon, she grasped his hand firmly to steady herself, pulse racing. Turning to him, she asked breathlessly, “Isn’t this exciting? I can’t wait to explore!”
Kaito and Zenith found themselves in the rhythm of the road. The wagon rattled along the dusty track as they edged closer to Plago City. The journey had been so smooth that Zenith’s eyes shone brightly as she took in the changing scenery around them. So far, they had made good time. With half of their journey behind them, they were ahead of schedule and bound to reach Plago City in two days.
“Kaito, I can’t wait to explore the markets in Plago City,” she said, sitting beside him. “They have this little bakery, ‘Misty Mornings’, their cinnamon swirls are to die for.”
“Cinnamon swirls, you say? That does sound tempting. Any other culinary highlights I should be aware of?”
“Oh, definitely!” her words tumbled out in her eagerness. “There’s ‘Sapphire Sweets’ – they make the most amazing cupcakes. You’ve never made cupcakes for me, Kaito. I wonder how they’d compare to yours?”
Oh, discussing cupcakes? How riveting. Alert me when you start talking about something less yawn-inducing.
Thrilling indeed, Karen. I’ll definitely alert you…but don’t wake up until I let you know, okay.
A hint of a challenge glinted in Kaito’s eyes. “Is that so? Well, perhaps I should take this as an opportunity to expand my baking repertoire. Who knows, maybe I can surpass even ‘Sapphire Sweets’.”
Zenith laughed, a sound that was both light-hearted and genuine. “I’d love to see you try. But be warned, their velvet lunar cupcake is a tough act to follow.”
“Challenge accepted. After all, exploring new culinary frontiers is part of the adventure, isn’t it?”
“Kaito,” she began, her tone softening, “you always seem to find joy in the simplest things, like baking or a beautiful sunset—or pouring rain. I…I admire that about you.”
Kaito turned his gaze from the road to meet hers. “Life is a collection of simple moments. Finding joy in them, that’s the key to happiness, don’t you think?”
Zenith nodded. “I think you’re right. And I’m glad to be sharing these moments with you.”
As the miles melted away under the clop of horse hooves and their effortless conversation, and they reached the border between Daiyudura and Ganada, an unanticipated quirk came into view.
A group of rough-looking men blocked their way.
When they reached the threshold one of the men stepped forward, a crooked grin on his face. “Good day, travelers. There’s a toll for crossing this bridge now. A new decree, you see. Forty silver pieces.”
Zenith’s brow furrowed. “A toll? That’s nonsense. I’ve traveled this bridge numerous times, and there’s never been a toll.”
The man’s grin widened. “Well, things change, miss. Pay up, and you can pass.” He then eyed Zenith from head to toe. “If you don’t have the forty silver, we can come up with some other arrangement—”
Kaito, interjected with a polite smile. “I apologize for any inconvenience we’ve caused. We weren’t aware of the change. I hope you have a wonderful rest of your day.”
“Hey Blarloc, what’s the hold up? Is he gonna pay up, or are we gonna have a problem?” yelled one of the other men blocking the bridge.
“I don’t know…I think he’s leaving.” Blarloc stood dumbfounded as Kaito gently turned the wagon around, heading back the way they came.
Zenith looked at him, bewildered and frustrated. “Kaito, what are you doing? That’s the only bridge to Plago City! We can’t just turn around. Unless you plan on flying us there?”
Kaito’s smile never wavered. “We’re still heading in the right direction, Zen.”
“But how? There’s no other way unless…”
“It’s called Dimensional Paradox Shift,” he said.
Zenith stared at him. “A Dimensional... what now?”
Kaito’s eyes held a mischievous glint. “It’s a simple technique, really. It changed everyone’s position relative to the bridge. Quite handy in situations like this. The scammers are actually facing the wrong direction now,” he chuckled.
Zenith shook her head in disbelief. “Simple? That’s a godlike spell. Not even Daiyudura’s master of illusion is capable of such tricks, Kaito…”
That spell was epic…but I’m a little offended that you kept it so inconspicuous.
By the way…I’m watching you.
“...teach it to me!”
I mean…it wouldn’t do any harm to teach her this spell.
▬▬ι════════ﺤ
“Kaito, wait. How does this align with my light IDM specialization? This feels more… Time and Space-oriented.”
“Ah, you raise a good point. While the core of this spell is indeed rooted in Time and Space IDM, there’s an aspect of Light IDM that can be incorporated to enhance it.”
Zenith’s expression softened. “Really? How so?”
“Light IDM as you know, is about clarity and illumination, correct?” Kaito began.
“Yes.”
“When performing the Dimensional Paradox Shift, envision your Light IDM as a beacon, guiding you through the folded dimensions.”
Zenith nodded slowly. “So, I’d use my Light IDM to ensure I don’t get lost in the dimensional shift?”
“Exactly,” Kaito confirmed. “Your Light IDM will serve as an anchor point. It’s about balancing the raw manipulation of space with the guiding properties of light.”
“Sooo, I focus on the precision of light, like I do in my dawn rituals, but apply it to the spatial coordinates of the shift?”
“Yes! That’s exactly it.”
Zenith frowned. “Yeah…that makes no sense.”
“The principle is actually straightforward. You’re essentially recalibrating the IDM’s spatial coordinates relative to the planar shifts.”
After retrieving a quill and a small notepad, made of bound parchment, Zenith scribbled some notes. “Spatial coordinates, got it.”
“First, you’ll need to calculate the NCV—the Numerical Complexity Value—which varies based on the spell’s target size and your current altitude above sea level,” Kaito continued.
Zenith paused, her quill hovering. “Holy Demon King, altitude matters?”
“Of course,” Kaito replied. “Now, remember the Fibonacci-like sequence for skill point allocation? You’ll apply a similar pattern here to determine the mana flow rate.”
Zenith’s brow furrowed. “So, it’s like... mana algebra?”
“Precisely,” Kaito said with a nod. “Next, factor in the phase of the nearest moon for IDM conversion efficiency. This will affect your spell’s potency. It’s very simple in this world’s magic system.”
“Moon phases, right...” Zenith blinked. “This is…like, not simple at all.”
“Don’t worry, I’m sure you’ll get the hang of it. Look, this is the fun part,” Kaito said enthusiastically. “Align your emotional state, let’s choose ‘determination’, with the IDM of Time and—”
“Look! The city gates!” she exclaimed, pointing eagerly. As they rode up to the entrance, Zenith’s gaze darted around, taking in the sights with a joyful expression.
Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Kaito watching her, his eyes showing a warm, happy glow.
They pulled up to the gate and two guards promptly approached their wagon.
Just be cool, she told herself. What if the guards gave them trouble about entering? She hoped the official letter signed and stamped by Neo Proudmantle would be enough.
Glancing over at Kaito riding beside her, she took a deep breath, reassured by his calm confidence. No matter what happened, she felt better having him there with her. She gave him a little nod and an apprehensive smile before turning to face the guards as they rode up to the gates.
“State your names and business,” one of the guards asked, peering at them curiously. Zenith could see her face clearly on the guard’s polished armor.
“I’m Zenith, the mayor of Calmo Village.”
“And I’m Kaito Smith,” he added.
“Welcome Mayor Zenith and...” The guard tilted his head at Kaito. “Master...Smith, was it? That’s an interesting and unique last name”
Kaito nodded serenely. The guard rubbed his chin. But Kaito, huh? Not a name we hear often around here. Sounds foreign, maybe from the Nozia Empire?”
“It’s a strange name around these parts. You’re not from the Nozia Empire, are you?”
“My parents were weeb—fond of different cultures,” Kaito replied evenly.
“By the way, there’s a group of bandits at the bridge between Daiyudura and Ganada. They’re demanding coin for passage.”
The guard’s expression turned serious. “Thank you for informing us. We’ll send a platoon to deal with them immediately.”
“Thank you,” Kaito added with a nod. “We thought it best to report such activities.”
Zenith leaned out eagerly. “Pardon me, but could we schedule an appointment with the mayor of Plago City? We have matters to discuss regarding our village.”
The guard checked a ledger, shaking his head. “My apologies, Mayor Zenith, but Mayor Shurkitsk’s schedule is full. I could book you for tomorrow at noon?”
“Excellent, we’ll plan for it then.” Zenith clasped her hands. “Well Kaito, are you ready to check out that bakery?”
Kaito inclined his head gallantly. “After you, Madame Mayor.”
“Please turn left past the gate, and you’ll have to leave the wagons and the horses in the stables.”
“Thank you for the directions,” Zenith replied with a polite nod as they prepared to proceed.
The guard glanced at the second wagon, then asked, “Mayor Zenith, is the insectoid creature with you?”
“Yes Sir. He will be transporting whatever goods we purchase from your city.”
“Very well. Please carry on.”
When Kaito helped her down from the wagon, she grasped his hand firmly to steady herself, pulse racing. Turning to him, she asked breathlessly, “Isn’t this exciting? I can’t wait to explore!”
